We’re indoors for a while longer this winter, so let’s talk air-cleaning plants and floral bouquets.

We’re stuck indoors much of the winter, so good, clean air is important. And, for many, also important is a Valentine’s Day floral display! Alberta gardening expert Jim Hole answers a few questions on the matters for this month’s Q and A.

Q: Are some indoor plants better at air purification than others? Which ones?

Hole: Plants do clean indoor air, reducing pollutants like formaldehyde and carbon dioxide. People traditionally go to spider plants, mother in law’s tongue and aloe vera. But you need a lot of plants to make a dent on air cleaning. In fact, the plant’s soil has more impact, dealing with microorganisms. But it feels good to have house plants, with loads of pretty foliage. So yes, the more house plants the better. Mist them, up the humidity–it all helps clear the clutter in our brains too.

Q: So, plants more for mental health than cleaning the air?

Hole: Pretty much, yes. There is good air exchange with Boston ferns, (all ferns), so people do like having them in the bathroom or in bedrooms. But enjoy the beautiful fragrance from a hyacinth or jasmine, that’ll do you good. Whatever plants you enjoy, have those in the home.

Q: Valentine’s Day is almost here. What’s your advice on florals for this occasion?

Hole: In surveys, men choose roses, but women prefer to get spring flowers. Roses are traditional, but they are not only expensive, they’re bred for the look; a vibrant colour and size, at the expense of fragrance. Instead, look at bouquets of spring flowers–gerberas, hyacinth, in purples and yellows. But whatever bouquet you pick, go for florist quality, use the packets of floral preservative that comes with it, and keep it in a cool place. As always, do a fresh cut on the stems and put the flowers into water right away. Light is good but cool is the most important.

 

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Originally Appeared Here